August 28, 2008 

The Constitution Education Fund Australia (CEFA) is delighted to announce that Miss World Australia 2008, Katie Richardson has accepted the invitation to become a Parliamentary Club Ambassador.

In support of CEFA’s Civics, Citizenship and Values Education work Ms Richard stated: “I feel that it is imperative for our younger generation to immerse themselves in the processes governing Australian society.”  She further added ‘Civics education is the key to producing a generation that possesses democratic attitudes, and therefore, education plays a significant role in maintaining the strong system that we have. CEFA’s Parliamentary Club provides young Australians with the opportunity to understand their government, it also allows them to have a voice and to action their ideas.’ 

‘CEFA is proud and honoured to have the support of Katie Richardson’ Mr Don Perna, CEFA Parliamentary Club Director said in response to the 2008 Miss World announcement. He further stated ‘Katie’s endorsement for the program is further proof that teaching students to develop measurable abilities to work cooperatively, take responsibility, think in critical and systematic ways, resolve conflict in a non-violent manner, respect and defend good Australian values is of great importance in Australian education. Through the PCs, CEFA will provide young citizens the skills to effectively participate in public life and engage their Australian community.’ 

The CEFA Parliamentary Clubs (PCs) is designed specifically to provide a new generation of Australian school students with a whole-of-school learning experience about democracy. The project allows the students to be immersed in civics and citizenship activities regardless of academic ability or subject choice. The PCs complement all learning areas and subjects of the school curriculum that relate to and teach civics. CEFA aims to have 1000 PCs operational in both primary and secondary schools across Australia by the end of 2009.